Doug Erickson sat down with paNOW on Friday and discussed his political ambitions.(Nigel Maxwell/ paNOW Staff)

By Nigel Maxwell

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First candidate announced for Ward 8 council seat

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While the byelection date for Prince Albert’s Ward 8 council seat has not yet been announced, one man is wasting no time tossing his hat in the ring.

Doug Erickson, who may be best known as General Manager of the Prince Albert Wildlife Federation building (WFB), told paNOW he has had political ambitions for over 10 years.

“I live by the rule if something isn’t broken, don’t fix it and so from my perspective running against Ted was really not beneficial to the community at all. Ted was an outstanding councilor,” Erickson said.

Earlier this week, Ted Zurakowski, who has represented the ward for the last 18 years, announced he had taken a new job with the Saskatchewan Teacher’s Federation and was stepping down. His resignation is effective Jan. 31 and City hall has six months to hold a by-election. Acknowledging the timing of his announcement, Erickson explained he simply wanted to get in the game early.

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“I want people to know it’s my intention to turn in nomination papers the minute nomination papers can be turned in,” he said. “This gives people in the ward an opportunity to contact me and talk to me about any concerns they may have.”

In addition to his 12 years running the WFB, and essentially turning the once defunct facility into a premier events centre, Erickson also has 40 years experience in the insurance industry. He also has some political experience as a former councilor for the District of Lakeland.

While explaining his focus is on getting elected, Erickson did note concerns he had with crime, business taxes and the city’s current homeless strategy. He explained his belief that with his background in business and management, as well as his connections in the community, he may be able to bring some fresh new ideas to the table.

“You know a lot of people can sit in coffee shops around town and complain about what’s going on, and you keep your ear to the ground listening to these things, but you can’t solve anything if you’re not on the inside,” he said.

nigel.maxwell@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @nigelmaxwell